Saturday, October 8, 2011

This morning I woke up at 6:10, checked the weather (36 degrees!) and began to pull out my cold weather running gear.

Ryan and I discussed routes and let Gabe know (awake for his Saturday morning tv watching) to make sure faith went potty when she woke up.

We headed out, anticipating the first sunny day since Monday and anxious to get out and enjoy it. We began to run, talking about a city council issue, Steve Jobs, the great book I'm reading to my kids, the value of general required classes in college. I love talking to him, with no interruptions. He's so smart and balanced and good at expressing himself. Plus he's interested in my opinion.

We ran around our local lake, up hills, through trees, around marshes and next to cute, remote, 1950s looking lakehouses. It was foggy at first and then the morning sun peeked through the fog and lit up the lake and trees. Kind of indescribably beautiful.

By mile 9, I was tired and so we put our headphones in--he finished up "The Help" on his audiobook and I put on my running playlist. As the music played and we ran back into town in the sunshine, I welled up with joy of it all.

Running with a strong body, beautiful scenery, quiet and conversation, a good husband--I just kept thinking: "THIS is happiness. THIS is joy. I am blessed".

I kind of have to laugh about the point in time that I read this. As I read I was smiling and feeling so happy for you...and in agreement with you about how wonderful it is to have a great conversation with my husband...

...and then John fell off of a kitchen chair that he wasn't supposed to be climbing on...

If you get a chance will you tell us what book you are reading with the kids when you write your October summary? I always follow your lead for choosing books. (We read The Giver...and I cried like a small child when the twin infant was released. I didn't see that coming. I love it when books really draw a reaction.) My kids think I am a weirdo, though...what am I saying...they know I'm a weirdo. Crying at the book just confirmed their suspicions.

totally agree. It is those moments that you feel gracious, blessed, content and overwhelmed almost with happiness....the simple moments and I believe it is easy to find that clarity in nature. I am so glad you shared. I feel that way when I am hiking!!